Breaking News: Cubs Pitcher Cade Horton Likely to Miss MLB Playoffs Due to Broken Rib
In a major blow to the Chicago Cubs’ postseason hopes, rookie right-handed pitcher Cade Horton is set to miss the upcoming MLB playoffs, including the National League Division Series (NLDS), after suffering a broken rib. The Cubs placed Horton on the 15-day injured list, with the injury being retroactive to Sept. 25.
Horton’s absence from the playoffs was confirmed by the team on Saturday, following his departure from a recent start due to soreness in his side. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed concerns about Horton’s condition, stating that the young pitcher was eager to continue playing despite the injury.
Despite initial hopes that Horton might recover in time for the Wild Card Series starting on Tuesday, the earliest he can return to the lineup is Oct. 10. The team called up left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks to fill in for Horton during his absence.
Recovery data from the Baseball Prospectus indicates that pitchers with rib fractures typically miss around 88 days, with the severity of the injury playing a crucial role in determining the length of absence. Given Horton’s standout rookie season, where he posted a 2.67 ERA in 118 innings, his absence will be keenly felt by the Cubs as they navigate the postseason.
As the Cubs reshape their rotation in Horton’s absence, lefties Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga are lined up to start Games 1 and 2 of the Wild Card Series. The team faces a challenging task in adjusting their pitching lineup to compensate for Horton’s absence and maintain their competitive edge in the playoffs.
Stay tuned as the Cubs navigate this unexpected setback and strive to overcome the loss of one of their key pitchers during this critical postseason stretch. Fans will be eagerly watching how the team adapts and competes in the upcoming playoff series.
